Dominique Easley is taking part in the New England Patriots' rookie practices. He's just not going full bore.

The rookie defensive tackle, who was selected No. 29 overall and is working his way back from a torn ACL suffered in September, is taking it "day to day" with the training staff and participating in the drills and running that he is able to withstand, according to a source.

In other words, his participation has been limited to this point. Which is fine, since there seems to be optimism that Easley's knee will be healthy when it matters.

When asked about the health of his knee in April, Easley said he was around 80 percent. It stands to reason his health has since improved.